37C ? mechanical gauge size?

[hcalmar]

Our 1979 37C has 16" gauges in the two diesel tanks that measure 20.5" deep(80%). As a result when the tank is half full it reads 1/4" ect. I suspect it reads pretty acurately when it is on plane. Is 16" origional. Do any 37C owners know what they have? By the way the length is listed on the side of the nut, after the "L" by the part number.
Hal

 

[JKC]

I checked my gauges this weekend but could not find the part number on the nut, so I'm not sure the size. However, I have the same problem you're describing; the tanks are nowhere near empty when the gauge shows empty! Your explanation seems logical to me.

Incidentially, I've admired the pictures of your boat. Mine needs so much work in comparison I sometimes think I'm fighting a losing battle. I'm curious about your generator; is it a 6KW Northern Lights? Without the sound shield, is it reasonably quiet?

 

[Nick]

Hal,

I'll take a look at my guages this weekend and let you know!

Nick

 

[hcalmar]

JKC
The Northern Lights is 6kw w/o a sound cover, and it really opens up the engine room - see the pictures I posted. Is it quiet enough? My wife would like it quieter but it is not that annoying and putting on a cover now would be too difficult. It handles everthing including the A/C unless the block heaters are on.

I did some math, not my best skill. At 165 gal there is 8.25 gal/inch or 33gal (20%) when it is on E. I wonder if I should switch to 18". I like the idea of a reserve but it is disconcerting to be on 1/4 and really have close to half a tank (40%).
Nick, thanks for your offer the numbers are small but visible along the side of the nut. the length is after the"L".
Hal